Charlotte NAACP statement on shooting

To the press, this is to acknowledge again, that the Charlotte NAACP finds itself even more disturbed and incensed than previously expressed in yesterday's press conference.

We do now call for a charge greater than manslaughter for Officer Kerrick because recent released information about the incident shows beyond a shadow of a doubt that this was more than manslaughter, this was a brutal killing and execution of Jonathan Ferrell.

There is no evidence that shows Jonathan Ferrell should have been shot at all but for Officer Kerrick to shoot 12 times and striking Mr. Ferrell 10 times indicates more than a reflex, it smells more of hatred and rage which shows that Mr. Kerrick was predisposed in killing a Black Man and did so with extreme prejudice.

I now say and will be lobbying for murder -- no other charge will suffice and the NAACP will plan for local community forums on past experiences with local police to see if this was an anomaly or was it part of the mindset and behavior of CMPD foot soldiers.

This is not in anyway a reflection of our appreciation and respect for Chief Monroe or his upper Administrative Team and the work they have done and is trying to do in Charlotte